At a Glance
- Tyler Perry faces a $77 million lawsuit from actor Mario Rodriguez alleging sexual assault from 2014-2019.
- Text messages show Rodriguez reached out to Perry in Thanksgiving 2024 and Aug. 31 2025, citing gratitude and financial hardship.
- Perry’s lawyer calls the claim a “$77 million money grab scam.”
Why it matters: The case highlights ongoing legal battles over alleged misconduct by a high-profile filmmaker and raises questions about power dynamics in Hollywood.
In a lawsuit filed last week, actor Mario Rodriguez accuses Tyler Perry of sexual assault, while new text messages suggest the two continued contact years later. The exchange has reignited scrutiny over Perry’s conduct and the broader issue of abuse allegations in the entertainment industry.
Lawsuit and Text Evidence
Rodriguez’s lawsuit, filed in California, claims Perry assaulted him during encounters between 2014 and 2019. The suit seeks at least $77 million in damages for sexual assault, sexual battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Perry has denied the allegations.
Screenshots of text messages obtained by News Of Austin on Sunday night reveal Rodriguez initiating contact as recently as Thanksgiving 2024 and again on Aug. 31 2025. In the messages, he thanked Perry for help, expressed gratitude “to the moon,” and disclosed ongoing health problems and financial distress.
- Sexual assault (2014-2019)
- Sexual battery (2014-2019)
- Emotional distress (2014-2019)
- $77 million damages
Responses and Allegations
Rodriguez released a statement Monday through his lawyer Jonathan Delshad, emphasizing the power dynamics that can keep survivors in contact with abusers. He argued that financial support can be part of the abuse cycle.
Mario Rodriguez said:
> “When someone has influence over your career, your income, your future, you don’t feel free. Survivors often stay cordial. They often ask for help when they feel desperate. That does not mean abuse didn’t happen. Those text messages were sent to Perry at a time when I was especially vulnerable as can be seen from the context.”
Mario Rodriguez added:
> “Continued financial support and access are not inconsistent with abuse-they are often part of the power dynamics that follow it. In many situations involving exploitation, money can function as a way to manage guilt, avoid conflict, or maintain silence.”
Alex Spiro said:
> “I said it before and I will say it again. This is nothing but a $77 million money grab scam.”
| Date | Theme | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Thanksgiving 2024 | Gratitude, support | Thanks for help, “to the moon” |
| Aug. 31 2025 | Health & financial distress | Health problems, lack of insurance, financial fear |
The lawsuit follows a separate case filed in June by actor Derek Dixon, who also accused Perry of groping him while working on Perry’s television series “The Oval” and “Ruthless.”
Key Takeaways
- $77 million damages are at stake in the lawsuit.
- Text messages show continued contact after alleged assault period.
- Perry’s defense labels the case a scam.
The case underscores the complex interplay of alleged abuse, legal accountability, and the enduring impact of past interactions on present relationships.
